What You Need to Know
The Tanzanian government has unveiled its strategy to harness technology and its youthful population for sustainable socio-economic development. At the 59th Session of the Commission on Population and Development, Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and inclusive policies to address socio-economic challenges and drive economic growth.
Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE Tanzanian government has outlined its strategy to leverage technology and the country’s large youth population as key drivers of sustainable development, emphasizing the role of research and innovation in addressing socio-economic challenges.
Speaking at the 59th Session of the Commission on Population and Development taking place in New York from April 13 to 17, 2026, the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, said Tanzania is strengthening policies and frameworks to ensure that technological transformation benefits all citizens inclusively.
Mchengerwa noted that effective use of technology has the potential to significantly reshape the country’s development trajectory, adding that the government supports global efforts aimed at integrating technology, research, and human development.
In his address, he underscored the critical role of youth in economic growth, stating that Tanzania’s large youth population represents a strategic asset for driving inclusive and sustainable economic expansion. He added that investment in education, skills development, and youth employment is fundamental to long-term economic transformation.
He further explained that population dynamics have been prioritized in national development planning, including the Development Vision 2050 and the Third Five-Year Development Plan, both aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In the technology sector, Tanzania has made notable progress through investments in digital infrastructure, particularly the National ICT Broadband Backbone and the Digital Tanzania Project. These initiatives have expanded access to e-government services and strengthened digital literacy, especially in rural areas.
Mchengerwa also stressed the importance of accurate data in development planning, citing the successful 2022 Population and Housing Census and improvements in the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system.
In the health sector, he said the government is implementing universal health coverage through the Universal Health Insurance Act of 2023, while the adoption of digital health solutions such as telemedicine is expected to enhance access and quality of healthcare services nationwide.
Tanzania has been focusing on leveraging technology to enhance socio-economic development, particularly through initiatives aimed at improving digital infrastructure and access to services. The government recognizes the potential of its large youth population as a vital asset for driving economic growth and innovation. Recent policies have emphasized the integration of technology in various sectors, including health and education, to ensure inclusive development and align with global sustainable development goals.
